Here is a list of factors to consider when looking to apply to a frequent flyer card:
* How much of a free ticket will the sign up bonus get you? Some cards will offer you a free ticket just for signing up, while others will offer you half or a quarter of a free ticket. Make sure you know what you're getting when you sign up.
* Can the miles be used towards the places you want to go? Getting a good introductory offer isn't the end of the discussion. You need to consider whether the airline attached with the card can take you where you want to go. Look up the airline and see what location they fly to before signing up.
* Can you use your miles with partner airlines? A lot of cards will let you use your miles on their partner airlines, which can broaden your travel locations greatly. However, sign up bonus miles are typically limited to the airline the card is associated with.
* How many miles do you earn with every purchases? Most cards will give you 1 frequent flyer mile for every dollar you spend. Some cards offer more, and some cards offer less. Other cards will give you more miles for purchases in certain categories. For example you could get double rewards for shopping at grocery stores, gas stations, and drug stores.
* How many miles can you earn per year? Some cards offer unlimited miles, while other cards have limits that are so high, most people never reach them. However if you're a big spender, or are getting a business card you should pay attention to whether there's a limit on the miles you can earn.
* Do the miles ever expire? Most cards will require some card activity on your account each year in order to maintain the miles you've earned. Make sure you know the rules for your card, and that you don't let your miles expire.
For a comparison of frequent flyer cards check out our airline credit cards section. You'll get a side by side comparison of all the major airline credit cards and their rates and special features.
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